SWFL Coast Guard family struggles during government shutdown

As the government shutdown nears its third week, thousands of government employees are left wondering when will they receive their next paycheck.

Such as Southwest Florida resident Kristi Curry. Military wife and mother of two young girls says her family is one of 42,000 Coast Guard families forced to make ends meet, potentially without a paycheck.

“I think a lot of people don’t know that the Coast Guard is one of the military branches, and of all the branches, they’re not getting paid during this shutdown,” Curry said.

Curry says her husband received his last paycheck at the end of December. Since then, she’s cut back on diapers, going out to dinner, shopping and even doctor visits for her 1-year-old.

“For a one and a half year old, we’re holding off on shots and doctors visits until we know that we’re going to be funded and paid for,” Curry said.

Last month, Coast Guard leaders released a letter for families to provide to creditors while seeking temporary financial relief.

As of right now, officials say Coast Guard members are scheduled to be paid again on Jan. 15, but they could miss that paycheck if the shutdown continues.

“It’s definitely hard not knowing when you’re going to get your next paycheck,” Curry said. “I’m a stay at home mom, so the Coast Guard being our only income, they’re not getting their paycheck if it doesn’t happen by the 15th.”

But, Curry says everyday the stress builds up. She’s ready for lawmakers and the president to cut a deal.

“We didn’t think it was going to last very long, so we were hopeful,” Curry said. “But it’s just starting to weigh heavier and heavier each day it lingers on.”